The process starts by identifying the starting point or conditions, and the end point desired.

A comprehensive plan identifies all the possible ways of reaching the final target. It chooses among all the options to find the optimal path to the result in a timely manner.

The Road-Map breaks down all the stages, considers feasibility and cost of each. It considers all the possible negatives, as well as the targeted positives desired, while staying focused on the effects over the long-term.

A Strategic Plan chooses an optimal path, sets achievable targets, and evaluates of the process with feedback.

At each stage, team-members can have positive reinforcement that the long term goals are in progress, while keeping sight of the important things to the organization.

The Strategic Planning process is a highly detailed research, then mapping of the way, management of personnel, marshalling of resources and execution of actions to achieve the target in a timely manner.